Region 8 Update
As you’ve all been aware, the pay issue in Region 8 has been an ongoing process of trying to work as productively as possible to fix a problem that was created by the oversight and missteps of the company. This has escalated, with the company issuing ‘Reminder Notices’ to all employees around March 12th, alleging that they have a debt. The company’s letter states, “You must act now. KDNB requires your action by 3:00 pm, 2 April 2024. If you do not take action by the required date, KDNB reserves rights to refer, if any, debt to an external collection agency.” That deadline has now come and gone so expect further communication.
One of the main issues is that the amount people are now being told they owe differs from the initial audit, with no explanation provided. In some cases, the difference is over $1000. The company’s use of virtual stand-over tactics against their own workforce by just telling them they owe a ne amount is disgusting and unacceptable. This is exactly what the Robodebt scandal did. Although thankfully no one has taken their own life because of this situation (as they did with Robodebt), we have had members in tears due to fears about the potential impact on their credit rating and other financial commitments.
It is important to note that the company debt have the right to refer the debt to a debt collector. It would then be up to the employee and the debt collection agency to sort out the matter. If challenged and taken to court then the debt must be proved. Another thing that can happen is that the collection agency can apply to have the debt held against your credit rating.
Should either of these things happen, the union will be defending members.
The mishandling of this situation has been astounding. It appears that no one put in thought to implement a reasonable reclamation process. Instead in many cases, they resort implied threats and not adequately explaining the debt. The lack of transparency in pay slips, requiring drivers to reconcile their earnings using an Excel spreadsheet in their own time, further compounds the issue. To add insult to injury, management recently had the audacity to publicly blame driver absenteeism for cancelled services, despite their policy of not covering all work across xmas and totally ignoring the impact their own actions have on drivers attending for duty. These issues will not be forgotten when bargaining begins at the end of next year.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns to your delegate or head office.
We report back to the Fair Work Commission on this matter this month and will update members afterwards.